Norinco M99
Norinco · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 1999
Also known as: Zijiang M99, Type 99, M99 AMR
Overview
The Norinco M99, also known as the Zijiang M99 or Type 99, is a Chinese semi-automatic anti-materiel rifle chambered in 12.7x108mm, developed by China North Industries Corporation (Norinco) for the People's Liberation Army. The rifle uses a direct impingement gas operating system with a rotating bolt, feeding from a 5-round detachable box magazine. Designed for engaging lightly armored vehicles, equipment, and personnel at extended ranges up to 1,500 meters, the M99 features a massive multi-port muzzle brake to mitigate the substantial recoil of the 12.7mm cartridge, along with an adjustable bipod and rear monopod for stable shooting positions. The buffered buttstock further absorbs recoil impulse, making sustained fire practical despite the weapon's large caliber.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 12000 g (423.3 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 12800 g (451.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1473 mm (57.99") |
| Barrel Length | 800 mm (31.50") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Direct Impingement |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 35 N (7.9 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 800 m/s (2625 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 15457 J (11400 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1500 m (1640 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3000 m (3281 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 30 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 381 mm (15.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 8 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Steel Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 12.7x108mm · primary — also known as 12.7 Soviet, 12.7mm Russian
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Multi Port Muzzle Brake, Adjustable Bipod, Rear Monopod, Buffered Buttstock, Carrying Handle, Picatinny Rail, Chrome Lined Barrel
Variants
- M06 — Improved
Service history
Operators
- People's Liberation Army · adopted 1999 · as M99
- People's Armed Police
- Myanmar Armed Forces
- Pakistani Armed Forces
Production
Production years: 1999-present
Mass-produced by Norinco for PLA and export customers. Exact numbers not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: China
Notes
The M99 was one of China's first domestically designed anti-materiel rifles, entering service in 1999 as part of the PLA's modernization program. The improved M06 variant features refinements to the gas system and ergonomics. The rifle's semi-automatic action provides a significant advantage over bolt-action competitors in rapid follow-up shots against moving or multiple targets. The direct impingement system, while less common in Chinese firearms design, was chosen for its weight savings compared to a piston-driven system. The M99 has been exported to several countries and has appeared in various regional conflicts throughout Asia and the Middle East.
Background
The Norinco M99 represents China's entry into the anti-materiel rifle market, designed during the PLA's rapid modernization of the late 1990s. Its semi-automatic action gives Chinese forces a capability that most competitors achieve only with bolt-action designs, allowing rapid engagement of multiple targets or fast follow-up shots against moving vehicles.